The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for his recent decision to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The party described this move as a clear sign of political inconsistency and a pattern of unstable allegiances that has characterized his long career.
Lagos APC Questions Atiku's Political Direction
In a statement released on Wednesday, Mogaji Seye Oladejo, the spokesperson for the Lagos APC, openly questioned Atiku's continuous search for new political platforms. He stated that the former Vice President's decision to defect at the age of 80 reflects what he termed "chronic restlessness" and a deeply ingrained habit of party-hopping.
Atiku Abubakar, who has contested for the presidency of Nigeria multiple times under different political banners, formally collected his ADC membership card last week. This development has sent ripples across the nation's political landscape, prompting reactions from various quarters.
A History of Political Movement
Oladejo did not mince words, alleging that Atiku's latest action is not driven by a well-thought-out strategy but by a sheer need for "political survival." He traced the former Vice President's journey through a series of political parties, including the PDP, AC, APC, and a return to the PDP, before finally landing at the ADC.
According to the Lagos APC spokesman, this frequent movement from one party to another raises serious questions about Atiku's political direction and his overall commitment to any set of ideals or principles.
Oladejo went further to accuse Atiku of being a central figure in the instability currently rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He claimed that Atiku's exit has left the main opposition party deeply fractured and divided.
Contrasting Leadership and a Call for Retirement
The spokesperson presented a stark contrast in leadership, arguing that Nigeria has "moved on" under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He credited the President with implementing crucial reforms designed to stabilize the economy and restore the confidence of both local and international investors.
In this context, Oladejo framed Atiku's persistent pursuit of the presidency as an act of "political disruption" rather than a viable or patriotic ambition. He reminded the public that Nigerian voters have rejected Atiku at the polls on multiple occasions.
The Lagos APC strongly urged the former Vice President to consider retirement from active politics, suggesting that his time has passed. Oladejo's statement included pointed remarks, stating, "Atiku’s decision to pick up an ADC membership card at 80 is the perfect climax to a political career defined by ceaseless desperation, chronic restlessness, and an incurable addiction to party-hopping."
He added, "Leadership is not a retirement hobby. Nigeria is not a consolation prize for serial losers. The presidency is not a raffle draw." Oladejo concluded by characterizing the defection not as a strategic reinvention but as an expiration of relevance, disguised as courage.
